How to Handle a Tough Partner (Without Ruining the Game)
One of the best things about pickleball is how much fun it is! It’s social, it’s a great workout, and it brings people together in a way few sports do. But sometimes, the toughest part of pickleball isn’t the team across the net—it’s the person standing right next to you.
We’ve all been there. Maybe your partner rolls their eyes when you miss a shot. Maybe they mutter under their breath or act like you’re the reason you’re team’s losing. Suddenly, instead of enjoying yourself, you’re tense, frustrated, and counting down the points until the game is over. I’ve had first-hand experience on this!
So, what do you do? How do you handle a tough partner without letting it ruin your day or your game?
1. Remember Why You’re Playing
At the heart of it, pickleball is supposed to be fun. It’s meant to give you joy, community, and some good laughs—not to leave the court feeling small. If a partner’s negativity starts creeping in, take a breath and remind yourself why you picked up a paddle in the first place. Keep your eyes on the bigger picture.
2. Don’t Feed the Drama
When your partner rolls their eyes, sighs, or makes a snide comment, it’s tempting to snap back. But meeting negativity with more negativity only adds fuel to the fire. Instead, focus on the next point. Stay calm. Let your play (and your attitude) do the talking. You’ll feel better—and chances are, you’ll play better too.
If the behavior continues, you have options: address it after the match or decide not to play with that person again. At some point, enough is enough.
3. Try Flipping the Energy
Even if your partner isn’t encouraging, you can be. Toss out a “Nice try!” or “We’ve got this!” after a tough rally. Offer a quick paddle tap. Positivity is contagious, and at the very least, it keeps you in a better frame of mind.
4. Focus on Teamwork
Pickleball is all about working together. If your partner struggles in one area, look for ways to adjust and cover. Communicate between points and figure out what does work. You don’t have to be the perfect duo—you just need to find a rhythm.
5. Know Your Boundaries
If a partner’s behavior crosses the line from annoying to toxic, it’s time to walk away. Protect your energy. Playing pickleball should leave you smiling, sweaty, and glad you came out—not dreading who you’re paired with.
Tough partners happen, but they don’t have to ruin your experiences. Stay positive, keep perspective, and remember why you fell in love with the game in the first place: pickleball is simply too good not to enjoy.
About the Author: Gina Cilento is a top 10 Senior Pro and multi-APP medalist who splits her time between competing and coaching. She’s the co-founder of The Pickleball Lab, a pod player for the Denver Iconics in the National Pickleball League, and co-host of Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil. Off the court, Gina shares her passion through her apparel line, The Pick, and her work with Empower Pickleball.
